Unpacking Gender Disparities in Work-Related Well-Being: A Comprehensive Analysis of Employment and Life Challenges in Abu Dhabi

Gender disparities in well-being represent a critical yet understudied issue, particularly in diverse socio-cultural contexts like Abu Dhabi. This study examines these disparities across four distinct groups: working adults, the unemployed, retirees, and migrant domestic workers, leveraging data from the fifth cycle of the Quality-of-Life Survey. This comprehensive approach investigates key well-being determinants such as mental health, social support, economic satisfaction, and life satisfaction, providing nuanced insights into how men and women experience well-being differently. Findings reveal significant gender-based differences within each group. Working adults exhibited disparities in economic perceptions, work-life balance, and mental health, while the unemployed faced pronounced gaps in mental health outcomes and access to social support. Among retirees, differences in financial stability, social engagement, and mental health highlight the compounded challenges for women. Migrant domestic workers displayed disparities in job security, physical and mental health, and social networks, with women reporting greater resilience but fewer external support mechanisms. Understanding these disparities is crucial for designing equitable policies that address systemic barriers to well-being. This study underscores the importance of integrating gender-sensitive and culturally attuned interventions to enhance life satisfaction, mental health, and social equity across these groups. The findings offer actionable insights for policymakers and stakeholders, contributing to a deeper understanding of the intersection of gender and well-being in Abu Dhabi's rapidly evolving socio-economic landscape.